Denver police warn all fireworks illegal in the city

DENVER — Denver Police are warning residents about the dangers of the most patriotic day on the calendar.

They say using any kind of fireworks in the city or county is not only illegal—but dangerous.

They’re a part of holiday traditions. Fireworks ignite celebrations in our night sky—and in driveways across the country.

But Denver Police and firefighters remind residents fireworks can hurt or kill you.

Safety videos show how exploding fireworks, which are illegal in Colorado, can take off fingers, or worse. But it’s the more family-friendly fireworks that experts say worry them most.

“We look at exploding ones and think of them as the most dangerous. But Sparklers cause more injuries than any other firework every year. It’s no different than putting a welding iron in a child’s hands then expecting nothing to happen,” says Denver Fire Chief Eric Tade.

He says Sparklers burn at 1,200 degrees.

It’s this danger igniting Denver’s desire to completely ban fireworks of every kind. “The last thing we want to do is give a ticket on the date of our nation’s birth. But the dangers involved in this is what dictates this law,” says Denver Police Commander Paul Pazen.

But the danger in several other cities and counties hasn’t extinguished sales.

“Lot more traffic, lot more people celebrating their freedom,” says the owner of Fantastic Fireworks, Cathy Morales.

She says business is booming.

Recent statewide fire bans had dampened celebrations.

“I got these for my cousins. They’re five. They’re going to laugh, have fun, going to have a good time,” says Arvada resident Max Iordan.

Fireworks fans disagree with Denver’s ban, saying it’s ironic that on a day of freedom, not everyone is so free.

“If weed is allowed in Colorado, then how come all of the fireworks are not allowed in Colorado?” questions Arvada resident Daniil Dorovskih.

“It’s about eating BBQ with family, enjoying America, going outside and waving sparklers and having fun. It’s been that way since I was a kid,” says Adams County resident Amanda Santorno.

If you get caught with fireworks in Denver it can cost you up to a year in jail and a $999 fine.

Teams of police and firefighters are already out patrolling for fireworks offenders.

Check with your local city and county to see what the rules are where you live.